The launch of my new book, The Little Penguins of Manly, was so exciting, and a huge success. It was held in the little (fairy) penguin enclosure at the top of Manly’s Sea Life Sanctuary, and as everyone filed in, all the little penguins came out to have a look. And they put on a huge performance during the early speakers (from National Parks, who commissioned and published the book) and also me. They dived into the water, did tumble turns, strutted about doing the ‘penguin walk’ and were incredibly cute. However, by the time Wendy came to actually launch the book they were obviously sick of playing second fiddle to a bunch of humans and decided to make their presence felt. They clucked and squawked, and danced and sang and there was such a noise that Wendy had to stop talking on several occasions until they’d quietened somewhat – which gives credence to the adage: never perform with children or animals! Truly those penguins were the stars of the show! You’ll be able to read more about the antics of Mr Sticky Beak, Lucky, Hopalong and co in the book, along with a whole lot of information about little penguins, and about our endangered colony here in Manly in particular. The book is illustrated throughout with superb photographs taken by David Jenkins, and I am so proud of it. It retails at $24.95, with proceeds going to help with the care and maintenance of our little penguins. For information and distribution, please email mel.tyas@environment.nsw.gov.au.
